Astragalus Root (Astragalus membranaceus) — Bulk Dried Herb
Astragalus Root (Astragalus membranaceus)
A cornerstone of the traditional Chinese materia medica, Astragalus root — known as Huáng Qí — is a perennial legume native to the grasslands and woodlands of northern and eastern China, Mongolia, and Korea. With a history spanning over two millennia in classical botanical traditions, it remains one of the most widely studied and respected roots in both Eastern and Western herbalism.
Our Astragalus root is certified organic, carefully cut and sifted to preserve the integrity of the root's natural constituents and aromatic character.
Botanical Profile
- Botanical Name: Astragalus membranaceus
- Family: Fabaceae (Legume family)
- Common Names: Astragalus, Milk Vetch Root, Huáng Qí, Bei Qi
- Plant Part Used: Root
- Preparation: Cut & Sifted
- Cultivation: Certified Organic
- Origin: China
- Appearance: Pale yellow to cream-colored root pieces, slightly fibrous with a smooth, layered cross-section
- Aroma: Mildly sweet, earthy, faintly hay-like
- Flavor Profile: Gently sweet, slightly woody and starchy
About the Plant
Astragalus membranaceus is a deep-rooted perennial that thrives in well-drained, sandy soils at higher elevations. The plant produces slender stems, pinnate leaves, and small pale yellow flowers characteristic of the legume family. Its roots are harvested after 4–7 years of growth, when the plant's constituents are at their most concentrated. The root has been documented in classical texts including the Shennong Bencao Jing (Divine Farmer's Classic of Materia Medica), one of the oldest known botanical references in Chinese history.
Traditional Context
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Astragalus root is classified as a Qi tonic within the category of tonifying herbs. It has a long history of use in classical formulas and is frequently combined with other roots and botanicals in decoctions, soups, and prepared formulas. Western botanical traditions have incorporated Astragalus into the adaptogen category — a classification used by herbalists to describe plants with a long history of use in supporting the body's natural balance.
Common Preparations
- Decoctions: Simmered in water for 20–45 minutes, traditionally added to soups and broths
- Tinctures & Extracts: Well-suited for alcohol or glycerin extraction
- Herbal Blends: Traditionally paired with Reishi, Schisandra, Codonopsis, and Eleuthero
- Capsules & Powders: Ground root suitable for encapsulation or blending
Quality & Sourcing
- ✓ Certified Organic
- ✓ Identity Verified
- ✓ Ethically Sourced
- ✓ Small Batch
- ✓ No Additives or Fillers
Storage
Store in an airtight container in a cool, dark, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. Properly stored, dried Astragalus root maintains its quality for 2–3 years.
A Note on Use
This product is sold as a botanical ingredient for educational, culinary, and traditional use. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner before use if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have a health condition.
Every purchase supports Twin Dragons Botanical Institute's mission of botanical conservation, responsible sourcing, and the preservation of plant knowledge for future generations.